Benham gambles with 35% Brentford investment

Brentford have received a major cash boost after professional gambler Mark Benham took a 35% stake in the club.

Bees United, the supporters' trust who own more than 60% of the club, have confirmed the paperwork has been completed on a deal which will see Benham invest £1million a year for five years, starting this season.

Benham, a Brentford fan who owns Smartodds Limited, will have operational control of the club but Bees United will continue to hold the majority stake.

Bees United chairman David Merritt said: "I am delighted that we have completed this deal with Matthew which significantly strengthens the club's finances at least until 2014."

In 2014, Bees United can either buy Benham out and repay his loans, or Benham can exercise an option to become a majority shareholder with Bees United becoming a minority stakeholder.

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